‘Now or never for us’: Ricky Ponting backs Punjab Kings to bounce back in crucial LSG clash

After suffering back-to-back defeats at a crucial stage of the tournament, Punjab Kings will look to get their IPL 2026 campaign back on track when they face Lucknow Super Giants in a must-win clash at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Saturday.

With the playoff race entering its final phase, Punjab still remain firmly in contention for a top-four finish, but another slip-up could severely dent their chances.

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Despite the pressure surrounding the fixture, PBKS head coach Ricky Ponting insisted the atmosphere in the camp remains calm, positive and focused on returning to the aggressive cricket that powered the team through the first half of the season.

“There’s a really good, positive vibe around the group. It’s been really relaxed. We’ve got quite an experienced group of players, so they know how to prepare for big games,” Ponting said during the pre-match press conference on Friday.

“There’s no hiding from the fact that it’s now or never for us in this tournament. But I’m excited about what this group is capable of because we all saw in the first seven games just how good this team can be.”

Punjab began IPL 2026 in dominant fashion and quickly emerged as one of the frontrunners for the playoffs before losing momentum in recent weeks.

Ponting also warned his side against underestimating Lucknow, saying teams with nothing left to lose can often become dangerous opponents.

“I think teams in situations like this can be very dangerous. Lucknow probably have nothing to lose apart from personal pride and pride for the franchise. But that’s also how I want my boys to play — fearless and daring,” he added.

“I want us to take the game on and not worry about the negative things that might happen.”

The former Australia captain further stressed that T20 cricket is often decided by fine margins and called on his players to stay focused on making an impact in key moments.

“These games are decided by very, very fine margins. One or two balls, one bad option or one piece of fielding can completely shift momentum. We just need to make sure we play our best game tomorrow,” Ponting said.

Ponting also praised PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer for his leadership during the campaign and highlighted the recent improvement shown by left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh in a high-scoring IPL season.

“Shreyas’ leadership around the group has been exceptional. He’s a very mature leader now who understands how to get the best out of his players,” Ponting said.

“Every time he speaks, every one of our players listens.”

Punjab Kings will take on Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Saturday evening in what could prove to be a defining match in their playoff race.